The Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami will host Native American artist Virgil Ortiz and Native American curator Monica Buckle for its “Lowe Connects” virtual program Jan. 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

The program is part of the university’s new Native American and Global Indigenous Studies (NAGIS) working group, which aims to give voice to Indigenous perspectives across UM.

A renowned potter and fashion designer, Ortiz (Cochiti Pueblo) will discuss his heritage, creative process and innovative artistic style. He is the son and grandson of Cochiti potters who taught him to make traditional pottery. However, Ortiz chose his own way and creates unique non-traditional pieces, which have been exhibited in Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian, the Virginia Museum of Fine Art, the Denver Art Museum and other museums around the world.

Buckle (Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma) is a consultant and curator who specializes in traditional and contemporary Native American arts and culture and is an advocate for the sustainability and development of Native communities.

The program is part of the NAGIS initiative to feature speakers involved in Native American issues for the remainder of the academic year.

NAGIS will introduce its first class during the spring semester. The course, “Introduction to Native and Indigenous Peoples and Perspectives,” will provide students with a critical overview of the experience of Indigenous people in the U.S. and globally.

Click here to register for this free event.